UFC 320: Alex Pereira Destroys Magomed Ankalaev in 80 Seconds

Alex Pereira is back? He never left.

Just seven months after losing his UFC light heavyweight title in a lackluster performance against Magomed Ankalaev, Alex Pereira stormed back in spectacular fashion at UFC 320, knocking out Ankalaev in just 80 seconds. With a brutal flurry of punches and elbows, Pereira reclaimed the belt and reminded the world why he’s one of MMA’s biggest stars.

“I told everyone I wasn’t at 100% last time, broken hand, norovirus, no one believed me. You saw it tonight,” Pereira said post-fight, referencing his March loss.

From the opening bell, the 38-year-old came out aggressive, landing heavy low kicks and a looping right hook that dropped Ankalaev. A failed takedown attempt by the Russian led to Pereira unleashing a barrage of elbows, forcing Herb Dean to stop the fight.

Pereira then mocked Ankalaev in celebration, echoing his viral moment after knocking out Jamahal Hill at UFC 300.

The win snaps Ankalaev’s 14-fight unbeaten streak and makes Pereira (14-3) a 3-time UFC champion. He’s now fought in eight title bouts in just 12 UFC appearances since his 2021 debut, winning six, all by knockout.

Pereira also paid tribute to the late Arthur Jones, brother of Jon Jones, with a moment of silence post-fight.

Pereira isn’t just back, he’s still at the top.